Habitat
Found in inshore waters right around Tasmania in depths up to 60 metres, including estuaries and bays. They are rarely seen by divers due to their habit of burying themselves in the sand waiting to ambush any edible fish that comes by. Found mostly over sand and seagrass meadows.
Fishing information
Can be caught on rod and line using whole fish baits and soft plastic lures when fishing off beaches. Occasionally caught in gillnets. They eat fish and other food items that are nearly as big as themselves, providing it can fit in their mouths.
Handling
Stargazers have two poisonous spines located at the top and back of their gill covers and a powerful set of jaws with raked back teeth, so keep hands away from the head area.
Cooking
These fish are good eating producing two large, round, white boneless fillets. The flesh is firm with a mild flavour so is good used in curries, stews and soups.